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Tis well to borrow from the good and the great; 'Tis wise…

“Tis well to borrow from the good and the great; 'Tis wise to learn: 'tis God-like to create!” quote by John Godfrey Saxe
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“Tis well to borrow from the good and the great; 'Tis wise to learn: 'tis God-like to create!”

John Godfrey Saxe

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He praises learning from great minds, valuing both imitation and original creation as divine acts.

In simple terms: Learn from masters, then create uniquely.

Key Takeaway

Study masters, then innovate.

Themes

learning creativity humility

Mood

inspirational philosophical

Type

didactic reflective

When to use this quote

  • education
  • artistic practice
  • research
  • innovation

Key Concepts

imitation originality divine inspiration

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who are your mentors?
  • How will you transform their lessons into something new?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on copying may stifle personal voice.

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